Are you experiencing bothersome head itching and noticing small whitish scales settling on your shoulders and clothing? Dandruff is a common problem that affects many people, affecting not only scalp health but also self-esteem.
Let’s look together at the causes, remedies and some tips for maintaining a healthy scalp.
What is dandruff?
Dandruff is a disorder characterized by intense flaking of the scalp. Itching and the need to scratch increase the shedding of scales, dry, dead skin fragments. Typically this problem, also called pityriasis, is associated withinflammation of the scalp, which, being irritated and dry, accentuates exfoliation.
It is important to note that dandruff is not contagious, but it can cause considerable discomfort due to the presence of the scales in the hair and on clothing. Following proper hygiene and taking appropriate remedies can help keep the scalp healthy and reduce the problem of dandruff.
What is it caused by?
The underlying reasons for dandruff can stem from several causes, many of which may interact simultaneously. Let us take a closer look at some of the factors that contribute to this annoying problem:
- Malasseziafurfur (or Pityrospum): is a fungus that can feed on sebum, an oily, fatty substance naturally present on the scalp. This fungus has an irritative effect that accentuates the production of new skin layers, thus amplifying dandruff flake shedding.
- Bad diet: an unbalanced diet characterized by excessive consumption of fat or lack of foods rich in zinc, B vitamins or certain types of fat can promote the appearance of dandruff. In addition, excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages can worsen this condition.
- Stress: stress can trigger the mechanisms that lead to the formation of dandruff or accentuate its manifestation. Sometimes, stress is related to seasonal changes, during which dandruff problems become more frequent.
- Dry or oily skin: dry or oily skin are two conditions that can promote the development of dandruff. Dry environments can cause skin irritation, while seborrheic dermatitis is associated with dandruff in the presence of oily skin.
- Psoriasis: when psoriasis affects the scalp, it can promote the appearance of dandruff, adding a pathological element to its manifestation.
- Irritation from hair care products: the use of hair care products, particularly shampoos or other cosmetics, can cause skin irritation and trigger mechanisms that contribute to dandruff.
Types of dandruff
One of the triggers for dandruff is skin type, with dry skin more prone to dry dandruff and oily skin to oily dandruff. Let’s find out together the differences between these two conditions:
Dry
Dry dandruff is characterized by the presence of white or grayish flakes coming off the scalp. The main cause appears to be the presence of Malassezia, a microorganism that feeds on sebum, thus contributing to dryness of the scalp.
Factors such as a stressful lifestyle, an unbalanced diet and the use of poor quality cosmetic products can promote this condition. It is important to adopt a less stressful lifestyle, eat a balanced diet and use high-quality cosmetic products.
Fat
Oily dandruff is caused by an imbalance of the scalp associated withexcess sebum. The dandruff flakes in this case are yellowish in color and have a greasy texture. Causes may include a genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, stress, unhealthy diet, and the use of harsh shampoos.
In this case, choose appropriate dermocosmetic products, avoid the use of substances that are too aggressive but rely on dermopurifying or sebum-regulating formulas to maintain scalp balance.
The most effective remedies against dandruff
Sebum, a substance naturally produced by our scalp, plays a crucial role in protecting the skin of the head and the overall well-being of the hair. However, when we are faced with this annoying problem, it is essential to adopt remedies that respect the sensitivity and delicatebalance of the scalp, avoiding further irritation. Here are some suggestions that will help you meet this challenge:
- Avoid scratching: despite persistent itching, resist the temptation to scratch your head. Not only can this further irritate the skin, but it could also cause wounds that could turn into scabs.
- Reduce the frequency of washing: decrease the frequency of washing, trying to cleanse the head with shampoo only a couple of times a week. Excessive cleansing can contribute to upsetting the natural balance of the scalp. When washing, use conditioners that can also be applied to the skin to rehydrate it, as if it were an extension of the skin on the face.
- Avoid heat sources and natural drying: reduce the use of heat sources such as hair dryers and favor washing hair with lukewarm water. Let the hair air dry or, if necessary, maintain an adequate distance between the hair dryer and the head.
- Gently massage the scalp: While washing, gently massage the scalp with the fingertips of your fingers, moving them in a circular motion. This practice promotes microcirculation, helping to oxygenate the scalp without risking nail injury.
- Exfoliating shampoo: to combat oily dandruff, use an exfoliating shampoo. These gentle formulas exfoliate the skin of the scalp, reducing the persistent itchy feeling and greasy effect at the hair root. You can also experiment with natural remedies, such as adding a few drops of lemon or sage essential oil to your neutral shampoo, known for their astringent and antibacterial properties.
- Rebalancing shampoo: to address dry dandruff, opt for a rebalancing shampoo made from natural ingredients. These formulas aim to normalize sebum production while also offering a soothing effect. Choose balancing lotions for dry scalp and moisturizing masks to strengthen hair. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of tea tree oil, known for its antibacterial properties, to your neutral shampoo.
Our tips for defeating it
Adopting proper hygiene habits is essential. Use specific cleansers such as anti-dandruff shampoos that are formulated specifically for your skin type. You can also use specific serums that also stimulate hair growth.
Nutrition plays a crucial role, contributing to the overall well-being of the body, including the scalp. A balanced diet with seasonal fruits and vegetables, rich in vitamins and minerals, can promote scalp health.
Avoid consumption of fatty foods such as cured meats, fried foods, and junk food and prefer whole grains, whole cane sugar, honey, and green tea, which are known for their antioxidant properties. Limit consumption of alcohol, black tea and coffee.
Dietary supplements, especially based on group C vitamins and mineral salts, are a useful remedy for combating dandruff formation and maintaining healthy hair.
Unity beauty: targeted treatments for a healthy, dandruff-free scalp
At Unity Beauty, you can find targeted skin care treatments that are ideal for managing dandruff and maintaining fresh, clean hair. Our“curative scalp treatment” is a specific treatment for scalp health and solves problems such as dandruff, excessive sebum production, hair loss, redness irritation.
Knowing your skin type and the specific cause of scalp disruption allows you to address the problem of dandruff with customized solutions, providing relief from annoying itchiness and a return to healthy, light hair.
Our targeted solution offers an effective and lasting way to get rid of dandruff, restoring the hair to a fresh and clean state. Come to Unity Beauty and rediscover the pleasure of healthy, light hair!
